The Board has restored a 20% rating for the Veteran's intervertebral disc syndrome (IVDS) from August 1, 2010. The evidence is in equipoise as to whether there was actual improvement of the IVDS disability and in the Veteran's ability to function under ordinary conditions of life and work.
The deciding factor: The Board found that the Veteran's IVDS symptoms have remained relatively consistent throughout the appeal period and more nearly approximated a 20% rating for the period from August 1, 2010. The evidence did not demonstrate improvement in the Veteran's ability to function under ordinary conditions of life and work.
- Claimed conditions
- Intervertebral Disc Syndrome
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- January 7, 2014
- Citation
- 1400385
This is a plain-language summary generated by AI from a public Board of Veterans’ Appeals decision. It can contain errors — always verify against the original. Look up the original decision on VA.gov (opens in a new tab) using citation 1400385.
What this means for you
A grant means the Board agreed the veteran was entitled to the benefit. Decisions like this show the kind of evidence and arguments that tend to succeed for claims like it.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Dismissed
The Veteran's appeals for increased ratings and service connection have been dismissed due to the withdrawal of representation.
- Denied
The Veteran's initial evaluation for cervical spine disability remains at 10 percent, as his symptoms do not meet the criteria for a higher rating under VA regulations.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has determined that the decision on appeal is legally inadequate due to insufficient notification and an inadequately supported medical opinion. The case is being remanded for further action.
- Denied
The Veteran's DDD is currently rated at 40 percent, which is the maximum rating available under the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine. The appeal for higher ratings on other conditions has been denied.
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